New York City is proudly built by immigrants. Come experience different cultures from around the world in just a few short New York City blocks.

A photo posted by Monica Wong (@_monicawong) on May 25, 2014 at 6:04pm PDT

Amidst all the shopping that Soho has to offer, this neighborhood also offers an opportunity to experience different cultures from around the world in a few short city blocks.

Brunch @ Jack’s Wife Freda

This American-Mediterranean restaurant, named after the owner’s grandparents, was built by immigrants from South Africa and Israel and serves food influenced by grandmother Freda’s cooking. This hodgepodge of cultural influence gave birth to a delicious pressed sandwich made with duck prosciutto, cheddar béchamel, gruyere and a sunny side up egg called Madame Freda.

I grew up on Chinese food. I ate it all day, every day. It’s my comfort food. But after a while, it get’s boring. Enter Asian fusion cuisine – my all-time favorite cuisine. It’s familiar enough to be comforting yet slightly different enough to be just a little exciting. In the East Village, there are three Asian-infused eateries that always satisfies my cravings. I call it my Asian fusion trifecta.

Lunar New Year starts this Saturday, January 28. There will be plenty of celebrations in Chinatown, but you can also experience the culture at The Fancy Animal Carnival. This outdoor exhibit features 11 insanely colorful animal sculptures by contemporary Taiwanese artist Hung Yin in the Garment District.